Leadership, Innovation & the Power of Resilience:
Lessons from George Crum’s Legacy
Leadership is not defined by titles, wealth or recognition—it is built through vision, adaptability and persistence. True leaders recognise that failure is an opportunity; that innovation often arises from frustration and that their legacy is shaped not by what they gain but by what they contribute.
George Crum, a chef of African American and Native American descent, likely had no idea that his response to a single customer complaint in 1853 would create one of the most recognisable snacks in the world. Yet, his decision to turn criticism into creativity gave birth to potato chips—a global industry worth billions today. Crum did not patent his invention, nor did he make a fortune from it, but his story remains one of determination, resourcefulness and leadership in action. His life teaches us that real leadership is about making an impact,…